Guidance for pediatric hematology-oncology (PHO) and hematopoietic stem cell transplant services during COVID-19 pandemic: A consensus statement by PHO chapter of Indian academy of pediatrics

Abstract With the recent Pandemic of Covid-19 affecting more than 180 countries across the globe, services to children with blood disorders and cancers are likely to be affected. Children, in general, are at lesser risk of developing severe diseases and mortality, and mostly recover from it; fortunately, till date, very few cases have been reported in children with cancers. However, since this is an unprecedented pandemic, there is a felt need for guidance on the challenges faced in providing care to children with cancers and various blood disorders including those requiring Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT). This document will provide guidance on how to maintain continuity of care for children with blood disorders & cancers during the COVID-19 pandemic while exercising all precautions to reduce the risk of Covid-19 in this vulnerable group and if infected, what optimum care should be provided to these children.